Soapstone Mountain Trail Races
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Event Overview
The Soapstone Mountain Trail Races will be held in Stafford Springs, Connecticut. The event includes two distances: a Half Marathon and a 6K. Both races take place on trails in the scenic Shenipsit State Forest around Soapstone Mountain. The 2026 edition marks the debut of the new half marathon course. The 6K race is named the Jerry Stage "Sampler" in honor of a long-time contributor to the event.
Race Courses
The races start and finish at the Reddington Rock Riding Club on Handel Road. Runners in both events will pass by the Soapstone Mountain fire tower.
- Half Marathon: The course begins on dirt roads and single-track before joining the blue-blazed Shenipsit Trail. It features an out-and-back section and passes over Soapstone Mountain and the tower twice. There are three aid stations along the route.
- Jerry Stage 6K "Sampler": This course follows a mix of single-track trail, dirt roads, and a section of the blue-blazed Shenipsit Trail. Walkers and hikers are welcome to participate in this shorter distance.
Event Details
The event is part of the 2026 Blue Blazed Trail Running Series in Connecticut, which utilizes trails maintained by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association. The organizing club is the Shenipsit Striders, a nonprofit trail running club founded in 1975. Proceeds from the event support trail stewardship organizations in Connecticut.
The event is cupless, so participants must carry their own water container. Aid stations are provided for the half marathon, but not for the 6K course. Bib numbers are recorded at aid stations for participant safety. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
